BOSTON — Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick is directing all schools and state offices to close and non-emergency state workers to stay home Monday because of fierce winds and coastal flooding expected from the major storm that's hitting the Northeast.
Patrick is also encouraging private employers to tell their workers to stay home.
Patrick said Sunday that widespread power outages are expected because of the high winds predicted to whip the state beginning at about 2 a.m. Monday, first on Martha's Vineyard and then reaching the southeast and northeast coasts before noon.
Emergency management officials said coastal communities are being urged to consider voluntary or mandatory evacuations as needed.
Regional shelters are expected to open by 8 p.m. Sunday.
Ex-Hit Man's Past Is a Shock to Some Neighbors
Fans: Gandofini 'Put New Jersey on the Map'
Does Future of Human Race Depend on Kansas Mine?
Reining in 'Bad News' Sports Parents
James Gandolfini Dies at Age 51
Fmr. TWA Flight 800 Investigators Want New Probe
Raw: Heat, Spurs Back on Court Ahead of Game 7
Dolce and Gabbana Convicted of Tax Evasion
Paris, Prince Depositions Used in Jackson Trial
Coiffed Cattle Get Their Close-up
In Berlin, Obama Channels Cold War Activism
Police at Patriots Tight End's Home for 2nd Day
Fed Suggests Bond Purchases Could Slow
AP: DOJ Broke Own Rules Seizing Phone Records
Raw: Baby White Rhino Debuts at Australian Zoo
Time Lapse: Rebuilding Bridge Post-collapse
Ohio Woman Accuses 3 of Holding Her Captive
Hunt for Ex-Teamster Boss Hoffa's Remains Ends
